#SheWhoDaresProject – Ashley May

Chances are if you live in Claremore, or the surrounding areas, you will recognize Ashley May as the face of moreClaremore, ensuring that you don’t miss any happenings in the community.

“The original point of moreClaremore was to be a cohesive platform where one could go and find out all the latest happenings in town. We also wanted to give the “little guy” advertising opportunities that wouldn’t break the bank. We consider ourselves “connectors” in the community. We have had a lot of success connecting people to make their ideas come to fruition.”

Being that connector, you’ll most generally find Ashley with a smile on her face, however, it hasn’t been all sunshine over the last year.

“I was diagnosed with breast cancer in February of this year, after my first mammogram. I was 38. I was fortunate that it was caught early, just a random fluke. I was shocked when I found out that the age for mammograms isn’t 40 anymore; it’s actually 35 now. We have a following of 29k on moreClaremore, so with my boss’ blessing, I took to the site to tell my story and spread the word about early detection.”

Shocked to learn of her diagnosis, she knew it was her duty to educate others.

“I figure God gave me a platform, so I might as well use it.”

These words are the mantra May uses to remind herself the power of sharing her story to emphasize the importance of early detection. When asked to give one piece of sound advice to ambitious women around the world, she simply states, “Get a mammogram!”

Ashley is proud to surround herself with supportive women. A couple of her leading ladies, and those she counts most influential are her mom, Dori, and her boss, Amy.

“My mom is one of my best friends, she’s always been there for me. She was a single mom for a while, and she has always supported my decisions. Amy just exudes confidence and class, she’s not afraid to speak up for what she believes in, and she has taught me a lot about rolling with the punches and not letting life get you down.”

That “roll with the punches” attitude has led Ashley to step outside of her comfort zone, and embrace herself and her body by keeping up with a fitness routine.

“I’m almost 40 and I’m learning to be comfortable in my own skin. Women are under a lot of pressure to look a certain way, so that’s some of it. I feel like I’m finally coming into my own after the mess this last year has been; cancer and divorce together aren’t fun. Working to be fit, even though I have a long way to go, is something that I have control over. And I enjoy the camaraderie that comes with being with my girls at the gym. I also think it’s important to teach my kiddo that it’s important to be fit and healthy.

Though it hasn’t always been easy, Ashley May has made the decision to stand strong and persevere. A mother, survivor, community leader, friend, and educator. The qualities of a “She Who Dares” woman are truly exemplified.

Her favorite scripture? Psalm 56:4, “In God I trust, I will not be afraid.”

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